Solution on track? Hebden and Mytholmroyd stations in running for parking funding

Calder Valley rail users could be set to benefit if a car parking scheme goes ahead.

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority has announced a package of car park extensions around the railway stations in Mytholmroyd and Hebden Bridge.

The project, which is part of the West Yorkshire Plus Transport Fund, has identified 16 stations across West Yorkshire that would benefit from increased car parking.

Geoff Mitchell, chairman of the Mytholmroyd Station Partnership, said: “For years our volunteers have been trying to get this car park.

Mr Mitchell added: Many years ago, our volunteers went out in temperatures of minus 10C to survey passengers about the possibility of introducing parking and the response has always been positive.

“Last year 95 per cent of people said a car park would be welcomed. The lack of parking is a Calder Valley problem and the introduction of car parks will help to ease this.

“We are up against the likes of Leeds so it is going to be tough.”

The announced package is designed to support employment growth in urban centres and benefit commuters.

The WYCA have commenced feasibility studies that will look at how viable it would be to increase car parking facilities at the Calder Valley rail stations, with an outcome expected by March. A board has been established to focus on the work and will include representation from Network Rail, Northern Rail and Calderdale Council.

Councillor Simon Young (Lab, Luddenden Foot) said: “It is an exciting step forward in what has been a long journey. It will be important in the economical regeneration in the Calder Valley.

“I think there is a parking issue in the Calder Valley so this would help alleviate that. The disabled access that is going to be provided is going to be critical as well, so fingers crossed that the scheme gets the go ahead.”

If the feasbility studies are successful, the car parks are expected to be built within the next three years.